Cristiano Ronaldo posts special message to mascot after sharing smiles and hugs in Portugal's World Cup qualifiers

Cristiano Ronaldo wrote a heartfelt note to a fan he met prior to Portugal's match against Armenia in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers, which the former won 5-0. The Portugal legend was seen comforting a child mascot prior to kick off on Saturday night, which was the first match Portugal played since the passing of Liverpool star Diogo Jota.

Ronaldo completed a brace in the match and following the tie left a message to the mascot, who stood in front of him during the pre-match rituals. He shared a video on X and wrote: "I made a new friend yesterday. Grateful for the love and support every single day and I hope everyone gets to follow their dreams!"

Ronaldo's goals extended his record as the highest scorer in men's international football to 140 and underlined his enduring motivation to keep setting benchmarks before his storied career comes to an end.

The 40-year-old soccer great has recently signed a new contract with Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr and led Portugal to victory at the UEFA Nations League last summer. The World Cup is the one major trophy that eludes him — leaving him behind his great rival Lionel Messi, who lifted soccer's biggest prize with Argentina in 2022.

Next year would likely be Ronaldo's last chance to win it when the tournament is staged in the United States, Canada and Mexico.